Identification, storage and display of land data on a website

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a land website that provides a personalized database on which data can be stored, retrieved, customized and communicated (e.g., by e-mail) relating to a particular piece of property. The database can be accessible via a password and a security code over the Internet and may be encrypted for transmission. Land websites can be established that contain image data, map libraries, virtual tours, legal descriptions, title information, e-documents, actual pictures of property and various other information. Unique 3-D imaging of composite images can be provided on the land website as well as fly-around composite 3-D images. The land website provides a unique way of packaging information relating to a piece of land in a single, accessible location. A boundary applet tool is provided on the land website portal that allows a user to simply and easily draw boundaries around the property of interest and then submit an order for more detailed information about the property of interest. Various map data and image data are provided to assist the user in drawing the boundaries. Acreage amounts are automatically calculated based upon the size and area drawn by the user. Properties of interest can be easily accessed by a global coordinate system or by searching on map data that is provided on a wide range of scales.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. non-provisional applicationSer. No. 10/162,723, filed Jun. 3, 2002, entitled “Identification,Storage and Display of Land Data on a Website,” which was based upon andclaims priority to: U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/295,097,filed Jun. 1, 2001, entitled “Identification, Storage and Display ofLand Data on a Website;” U.S. provisional application 60/336,258, filedOct. 31, 2001, entitled “Identification, Storage and Display of LandData on a Website;” U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/370,083,filed Apr. 4, 2002, entitled “Web Imaging Serving Technology;” and U.S.provisional application Ser. No. 60/356,405, filed Feb. 11, 2002,entitled “Internet Delivered and Accessible set of Maps, Images, andTools for Locating, Identifying, Measuring, Viewing, and CommunicatingInformation About Land and Areas of Land.” All of these are specificallyincorporated herein by reference for all that they disclose and teach.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

An extensive amount of data has been collected from various sources suchas satellites, land surveys, legal descriptions and other sources thatprovide detailed information relating to land. For example, mapsprovided by the Bureau of Land Management provide map data thatindicates legal boundaries relating to land ownership. Satellite dataprovides imagery indicating land features, growth and vegetation, watersources and other geographical features. Infrared imagery has been usedto careful study growth and vegetation features, for example.Topological information has been accumulated through radar satellitesand topological surveys. Hence, there is a huge body of informationrelating to land and associated features such as rivers, roads, vectordata and raster data.

Various imaging techniques have been used that combine various sourcesof data and allow a user to view images of these combined data sources.For example, 3-D images have been generated that combine political andphysical characteristics with satellite imagery. Land can be viewed,using this technique, at an elevated angle such that the image depictsthe various features relating to land. Further, growth and vegetationdata can be added to such images from other data sources to provide amore enhanced view. As another example, BLM map data can be combinedwith satellite imagery data to indicate legal boundaries on thesatellite imagery. Further, topological data can be used to provideshading on a two-dimensional image that provides imagery relating totopological features, which is commonly referred to as 2.5-D images.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention may therefore comprise a method of generating apersonalized land website at a dedicated Internet accessible locationhaving a dedicated uniform resource locator (URL) address on theInternet, said personalized land website providing an archive of avariety of information relating to a selected area of land comprising:creating said dedicated Internet accessible location at said dedicatedURL address for storage of said archive of said variety of information;providing map data over the Internet that relates to said selected areaof land; providing boundary drawing tools to allow a boundary to becircumscribed at least partially around said selected area of land onsaid map data; drawing a boundary at least partially around saidselected area of land using said boundary drawing tools; storing saidmap data at said dedicated Internet accessible location on said landwebsite at said URL address; and providing additional storage locationson said personalized land website for storage of text informationrelating to said area of land at said dedicated Internet accessiblelocation.

The present invention may further comprise a method of generating apersonalized land website at a dedicated Internet accessible locationhaving a dedicated uniform resource locator address (URL) address on theInternet, said personalized land website dedicated to providing avariety of different types of information relating to a selected area ofland at said dedicated URL address that is accessible to users of theInternet comprising: creating said dedicated Internet accessiblelocation for said land website that is accessible by users of theInternet at said dedicated URL address for storage of said variety ofinformation relating to said selected area of land; providing map dataover the Internet that is stored at said dedicated Internet accessiblelocation; drawing a boundary at least partially around said selectedarea of land using a boundary drawing tool; providing additional mapdata that includes different types of maps and photographic datarelating to said selected area of land; and storing said map data andphotographic data on said personalized land website at said dedicatedInternet accessible location which is located at said dedicated URLaddress.

The present invention may further comprise a land website that providesa dedicated Internet URL address for archiving information relating toan area of land comprising: a storage device that stores map data;boundary drawing tools that circumscribe a boundary around said area ofland to create global coordinates for said area of land; an Internetaccessible storage area located at said dedicated Internet address thatstores said map data associated with said global coordinates and otherdata as a personalized land website; browser compatible imaging toolsthat interface with browsers that allow viewing of said map data andother data on said personalized land website.

The present invention may further comprise a method of generatingindividual and personalized land websites located at a dedicated uniformresource locator address on the Internet creator that providesinformation relating to a selected area of land, said personalized landwebsite providing an archive of said information comprising: creatingsaid dedicated uniform resource locator address on the Internet;providing map data over the Internet; providing boundary drawing toolsthat circumscribe a boundary around said selected area of land on saidmap data to create personalized land map data; storing said personalizedand map data at said dedicated uniform resource locator address; andproviding additional storage locations at additional dedicated uniformresource locator addresses for storage of additional informationrelating to said selected area of land.

The present invention may further comprise a method of generating apersonalized land website on the Internet that contains informationrelating to a selected area of land comprising: providing map data overthe Internet; drawing a boundary around said selected area of land usingboundary drawing tools to create a personalized land map; storing saidpersonalized land map at said dedicated uniform resource locatoraddress; storing additional data relating to said selected area of landat an additional dedicated uniform resource locator address; andproviding said uniform resource locator address and said additionaldedicated uniform resource locator address as said personalized landwebsite.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings,

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of the manner in which an embodimentprovides a central archive of personalized land websites.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the layout of the land website portal.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the functions of the land websiteportal.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating the manner of generating boundarydata to create a land website.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating the method of georeferencing globalcoordinates.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the generation of frame windows.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating the manner in which image data canbe modified.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps that may be used forlocating property and visually generating boundary data.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the steps that may be used forgenerating boundary data from GPS way point data.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps for generating boundarydata from metes and bounds descriptions.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps that can be used tomarket personalized land websites.

FIG. 12 illustrates the steps that may be employed in the marketing ofvarious offers for products and services.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments disclosed herein provide a system that has a central archivefor storing map data, satellite images, e-documents, photographs,modified images, important Internet links, and any other desired datarelating to a property. Various embodiments generate a partitionedstorage area on an Internet server for each property that is eitherpublicly accessible, or password and security code accessible, so as toprovide a personalized, customizable land website. Because every parcelof land is unique, the personalized land website provides a digital“fingerprint” of the property.

Various embodiments can employ various techniques for locating andidentifying a property of interest. For example, the system of thepresent invention may allow a user to visually identify a property byusing various map data or images of land. A drawing tool can be employedby the user to generate boundaries that circumscribe the property. Thecircumscribed property is then framed within a boundary window so thatadditional imagery can be generated that allows the user to view variousimages of the circumscribed property within the boundary frame window(“frame window”). Viewers can then take virtual tours of the property bysimply using an Internet accessible computer having a web browser. Forexample, rotating 3-D imagery of the property within the frame windowcan be generated such that the property can be viewed at an elevatedangle showing topological features, vegetation and growth, legalboundaries and other information from 360 degrees. Global coordinatesfrom one set of map data to another set can be used so that boundarypoints identified on one set of images appears on other sets of imagedata at corresponding locations to assist the user in properlyidentifying the property boundaries of interest.

The disclosed embodiments may be used for various purposes to archiveand deliver land information to various people such as brokers,appraisers, lenders, developers, land owners, consultants, potentialbuyers, construction personnel making improvements on the property,government personnel making planning decisions, land managers, etc. Ineach of these cases, other additional data from the user or thirdparties can be provided on the land website. For example, legaldocuments can be provided relating to the land. In that regard, terms ofthe purchase can be provided together with leases, title abstracts,easements, rights of way and other legal documentation in a specificarea set aside for e-documents. Additionally, the disclosed embodimentscan be implemented in a simple and easy fashion over the Internet whichwill allow users to readily access data for generating circumscribedboundaries and frame windows for viewing the property.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the presentinvention. As shown in FIG. 1, a central archive land website 101 isconnected to the Internet that provides interactive connection to thecentral archive land website 101. The central archive land website 101is connected to a land website portal 102 that functions as a portal forthe land website 102. The land website portal 102 may have a number ofpersonalized land websites 104, 106 that are provided to users via theInternet 100 by a connection through the land website portal 102. Thepersonalized land websites 104, 106 may be generated and paid for byusers such as user 108 who is also connected to the Internet 100. Theuser 108 may select a particular piece of land for which the user wouldlike to establish a personalized land website. As disclosed below, theuser 108 generates boundary data to identify the particular piece ofproperty of interest. The land website portal 102 may include a serverhaving a storage device 112 connected thereto having a large amount ofstorage space. Each personalized land website, such as personalized landwebsites 104, 106, are stored on the storage device 112 and may then bepassword and security code protected to restrict access by other users.Further, portions of the personalized land websites may also beprotected by additional passwords. User 108 may allow other users suchas user 110 to directly access a personalized land website.Alternatively, user 108 may wish to e-mail portions of the data storedon a personalized land website to a user such as user 110. In thatregard, the Internet address of the personalized land website may bee-mailed to a user, together with the security code for accessing thepersonalized land website. The personalized land websites, such aspersonalized land website 104, 106, may contain various data includingvarious map data illustrating the boundaries of the property, satelliteimage data, photographic data, e-documents (text material) relating tothe property such as grazing leases, title and deed information, publicland leases, easements and rights-of-way and other similar e-documentinformation. Photographic data can be scanned as well as e-document dataand uploaded by the user onto the personalized land website, asdisclosed more fully below. Third party maps can be stored by the useron the personalized land website, as well as image data that has beenmodified by the user. In short, any type of information relating to theland can be stored by the user on the personalized land website.Further, the personalized land website can be directed to any propertyof interest and does not have to be owned by the user that establishesthe personalized land website. The personalized land website can be usedfor studying property, offering property for sale, marketing and othervarious purposes. In this fashion, the present invention provides acentral archive of all of the digital information relating to a selectedpiece of property on a personalized land website that can be archivedand retrievable on a site specific basis. In this fashion, a digitalfingerprint of the property can be generated.

Map image data and other image data is stored on a storage device 112coupled to the central archive land website portal 102. The browsercompatible imaging tools 118 allow a user such as users 108, 110 toaccess and view the map and other image data using a standard webbrowser tool. The users can then utilize the boundary drawing tool 114to draw a boundary around an area of land of interest. The boundarydrawing tool identifies the global coordinates on the map and otherimage data. These global coordinates are then used by the frame windowgenerator 116 to generate a frame window described below. The map imagedata and other image data identified in the frame window is then storedin the personalized land website.

FIG. 2 illustrates the layout 200 of the land website which is operatedby a server that is capable of performing the functions disclosedherein. The layout 200 illustrates the manner in which a user of thewebsite can access the functionality provided by the present invention.As shown in FIG. 2, the user can log onto a land website portal 202 thatprovides the ability to access various functions. For example, the usercan access the free map function 204 and subsequently generate a landwebsite or print a free map at step 206, as disclosed above. The usermay access the members' entrance 208, login a password at 210, and thenaccess a land website at 212. The user may wish to view land for sale byaccessing the land-for-sale button 214. A search engine is then providedat 216. The user can then view various land websites at step 218.

At 220 of FIG. 2, a viewer may wish to view the functionality providedby the land website by viewing free tour demonstrations for sampleproperties. At step 222, the viewer accesses a demonstration of a landwebsite that may provide a high degree of functionality including 3-D,composite images that contain satellite, vegetation and USGS detail, afly-around movie that has been generated from composite images, picturesof the property that have been downloaded onto the website, legal andother documentation that has been stored at the website and otherfunctionality that has been described above. A user may also select theproducts button 226 on the land website portal 202 which allows the userto directly order a land website, rather than entering through the freemap entrance 204. The product entrance 226 may be used, for example, asa direct link from another website which has generated interest via alink from a user who would actually like to purchase a website ratherthan obtain a free map of the land. The land website portal may alsoinclude a link library 230 that allows a user of the land website toaccess educational materials regarding real estate at step 232. The linklibrary 230 provides an additional reason to access the land websiteportal and draws additional viewers to the land website portal 202.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the functions of the land websitethat is used in accordance with the present invention. At step 300 theuser logs onto the land website. The land website provides an offer fora free map at step 302. The free map allows the user to draw boundariesand obtain a USGS type of map that can be enhanced by shadowing orcolors to indicate terrain variations. The free map can be provided as a1:24 K USGS map, or a 1:100 K USGS map if the property is very large.

Alternatively, the user can link from another website into the landwebsite, as illustrated at step 304, rather than entering through thesplash page of the land website. For example, links may be provided fromorganizations that study and evaluate property such as environmentalistorganizations, the Nature Conservatory, national laboratories, etc.Further, links may be provided from sales organizations such as realestate brokers, online sales organizations, providers of map data,providers of satellite imaging data, etc.

At step 306 of FIG. 3, the user employs a drawing tool to generateboundary data. This step is more fully disclosed with regard to thedescription of FIG. 5. At step 308, the user is given the choice ofprinting the map or saving the boundary data. If the user decides toprint the map at step 310, an enhanced USGS map having shading toindicate elevation changes (2.5-D map) is provided to the user forprinting. More specifically, the land website generates an image of themap data that is downloaded to the user's computer which allows the userto print that image. The image and boundary data that has been generatedis then erased from the land website server. The user, in this fashion,receives the free print of the property and the process is ended.

If the user, at step 308, decides to save the boundary data, the user isgiven the option of saving the boundary data at step 312 for a shorterperiod, such as 30 days, or a longer period such as 1 year. If the userdecides to choose the shorter period, a first introductory price ischarged at step 316. The process then proceeds to step 318 where apassword protected database that is Internet accessible (personalizedland website) is generated. If the user, at step 312, decides to savethe data for a longer period, a second introductory price is charged atstep 314. The process then proceeds to step 318.

At step 320 of FIG. 3, the user is offered upgraded packages havingstage prices and progressively more features. For example, the user maybe offered bronze, silver, gold and platinum packages which each containadditional features and have progressively higher prices. For example,the bronze package may include a set of maps that includes BLM dataindicating legal boundaries for leased property and acreagecalculations. The highest package, the platinum package, may provide 3-Dsatellite images, a 3-D satellite fly-around movie, storage areas on thepersonal land website that allow the storage of photographs of theproperty, a storage area for legal documents relating to the propertysuch as titles, leases, title abstract information, easements,right-of-way information and other features described herein. At step322, the user is given the choice of purchasing an upgraded package. Ifthe user chooses to not buy an upgraded package, the process ends. Ifthe buyer wishes to buy an upgraded package, at step 324 the buyerselects the desired package and a personalized land website is providedhaving the features corresponding to the particular package purchased bythe user. The user then selects a password and security code that theuser can provide to other parties to access the user's land website.

FIG. 4 illustrates the steps 400 that are used to generate boundary dataand a land website. At step 402, various map and satellite image dataare provided to the user so that the user can identify boundary locationpoints to generate the boundary data. For example, a series of maps suchas 1:24 K USGS, 1:100 K USGS, BLM and other types of maps may beprovided so that the user can identify location boundary points.Further, satellite image data that includes vegetation and topologicalfeatures are provided to assist the user in identifying boundarylocation points. For example, the user may employ a cursor to click on aboundary location point on a particular map or satellite image.Alternatively, the user may actually hold the cursor down and draw aline indicating a boundary location. At step 404, the boundary locationpoints and other boundary data are entered on the maps and the imagedata, as indicated above. At step 406, the boundary location points aregeoreferenced to a global coordinate system. For example, a system ofglobal coordinates can be used to identify the specific location of theboundary location points. Once the global coordinates of each of theboundary location points are determined, the boundary location pointsare then generated on the other map and image data, as indicated morespecifically in FIG. 5.

At step 408 of FIG. 4, once the boundary data has been entered and acomplete boundary has been provided, a frame window is generated. Theframe window is generated to encompass the entire circumscribed propertyas well as a certain amount of additional land around the circumscribedproperty to allow the viewer to view the circumscribed property togetherwith a certain amount of surrounding property. The manner of generatinga frame window is more fully disclosed with respect to FIG. 6. At step410, the system then calculates the acreage of the circumscribedproperty and provides that information to the user. At step 412, USGSmap images, such as the 1:24 K USGS map image or the 1:100 K USGS mapimage, are generated. These images may be generated, for example, as ajpeg image that can be easily stored and viewed by most personalcomputers. At step 414, the map image is stored together with any otherassociated data on the land web server in a partitioned storage that isonly accessible by a password and security code. In this fashion, apersonalized land website is provided by the land web server for theuser so that the user can access the land data. Alternatively, as setforth in FIG. 3, the map image data may not be stored but only used togenerate a free map. In that case, the process would stop at step 412.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 illustrating the method of georeferencingglobal coordinates. At step 502, the user selects a boundary locationpoint on a first map based upon the map data. As indicated above, themap data that is provided may be a 1:24 K or 1:100 K USGS map dependingon the size of the property. Additionally, other map and image data, asindicated above, may be provided to locate boundary points for thepurpose of drawing the boundary locations. At step 504, a selectedboundary location point is located on a first map. The boundary locationpoint is then georeferenced to global coordinates. For example, a globalcoordinate system can be used to georeference the boundary locationpoints that have been selected by the user on the first map. At step506, the global coordinates are then identified on the additional mapand image data, such as satellite image data. The actual location pointsare displayed on each of the maps and image data in accordance withtheir georeferenced global coordinates at step 508. At step 510, theuser is then provided with links to toggle between the first map andadditional maps to insure that the boundary location points have beenproperly placed on the maps. Changes can be made on any of the maps. Ifa boundary location point is changed on a particular map, thecorresponding location will appear on all of the other maps.

FIG. 6 illustrates the steps 600 for generating frame windows. At step602, the boundary data that circumscribes the property of interest isobtained by the frame window software. At step 604, the frame windowsoftware generates a buffer zone around the boundary data that normallyhas a predetermined shape such as a rectangle. The buffer zone has asize that is a certain percentage larger than the size of thecircumscribed property so that a certain amount of surrounding land willbe displayed in the images that are generated of the property ofinterest. The decisions regarding how to draw the frame window canoperate in accordance with any desired algorithm. For example, if thewidth of the property of interest has a predetermined distance X, thedistance from the outer most part of the property boundary to the framewindow on either side may be selected as X/5, for example. The sameprocess can be used in the vertical direction, i.e. the north and southdirection, also. Again, any desired manner of selecting the size of aframe window can be used so that the frame window is automaticallygenerated in a way that shows a certain percentage of surroundingproperty. At step 606, the buffer zone information is used to generatethe frame window.

FIG. 7 illustrates the steps 700 that may be used in modifying imagedata. At step 502, any standard graphic software package can be launchedby the user. Such graphic software packages may comprise Microsoft'sPhotoShop, FotoAlbum available from FotoTime, or any other type ofgraphics package that is capable of displaying and modifying image data,such as jpeg image data. At step 704, the user accesses the desiredimage data using the graphic software package. For example, the user maywish to access and modify satellite image data or a USGS map to add ortake out features. At step 706, the user employs a graphic softwarepackage to make modifications to the image data as desired. The graphicsoftware package provides the ability to add or subtract features fromthe jpeg image. The image can then be stored as indicated at step 708 asa modified image on the land website or as a brand new image.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 800 for locatingproperty and visually generating boundary data. As shown in step 802, auser can choose the option of locating a property using a geographicalname, a township or range, or visually locating the property using mapdata. If a geographical name is used, the process proceeds to step 804where the user enters the geographical term. The geographical term canbe a term such as the name of a state such as Colorado, a region such asMountain West, a more specific geographical region such as Cameron Passor Rawah Mountains, etc. There are approximately 1.6 milliongeographical names that are included in the GENIS (Geographical NameInformation System) database that correspond to the USGS quad maps. Byentering one of the geographical names from the GENIS database, a USGSquad map can be quickly accessed. At step 806, a search engine isemployed that searches a database of geographical terms. Thegeographical terms are tied to a series of maps such as USGS maps sothat the property USGS map can be located. Of course, any type of maps,such as BLM maps or other maps can be tied to the geographical termdatabase. At step 808, the search engine generates an address for theUSGS map or other map for the associated geographical term. At step 810,the USGS map or other map is displayed to the user that corresponds tothe geographical term that has been used. At step 812, the user is giventhe option to pan and zoom the USGS maps or other maps to adjacentlocations in various scales to choose the best size to draw boundarydata. For example, the user may wish to use a 12 K map that shows moredetail for smaller pieces of property rather than a 24 K USGS map sincethe 12 K maps show more detail. Additionally, since the points on eachof the maps are georeferenced, smaller scale maps may be more desirablefor carefully identifying boundary location points. The USGS maps orother maps can be joined together in a mosaic so that the user can panfrom one location to another to locate the desired locations for drawingthe boundary data. At step 814, the user visually enters the boundarydata on the USGS maps using a drawing tool as described herein.

As shown in FIG. 8, the user may choose to enter a township and range tolocate the property of interest at step 802. In this case, the processproceeds to step 816 where the user enters the township and rangeinformation. At step 818, a search engine searches for the township andrange data in a township and range database. The township and rangedatabase is similar to the geographical term database in that itincludes a large listing of township and range information which is tiedto a series of maps such as USGS maps. Each township and rangeencompasses an area approximately 6 miles by 6 miles. Hence, a USGS mapcan be displayed that encompasses an area of approximately that size.Again, any type of map can be used. USGS maps are mentioned only forillustrative purposes. At step 820, the search engine generates anaddress for the USGS map. The process then proceeds to step 810 wherethe USGS map is displayed and proceeds through steps 812 and 814 asdescribed above.

As further shown in FIG. 8, the user, at step 802, may choose tovisually locate the property of interest. In this case, the processproceeds from step 802 directly to step 810 where a large-scale map isused to visually search. For example, a 1 million or 2 million scale mapmay be displayed which may show a large portion of a particular state.The user can then proceed through steps 812 and 814 to locate theproperty of interest. The zooming feature of the present inventionsimply switch scales of available maps and use processes for identifyingthe central portion of the particular map that is being displayed andaligning the central portion with a location on a map of a differentscale with the central portions aligned. Alternatively, points can belocated and clicked. Whenever the zoom-in or zoom-out button has beenactivated, the maps will change scale and locate the identified point inthe central portion of the display.

The various ways of locating property, as illustrated in FIG. 8, can bevery useful, especially when performing research on a particular area.For example, studying watersheds can be of particular interest since thewatershed can be easily located using the methods described in FIG. 8,and a boundary area can be circumscribed around the area of interest.Further, the Forest Service or others may wish to locate an area andcircumscribe that area for the purposes of studying and performing acontrolled burn. Further, forestation and cutting of particular areascan be studied with a high degree of accuracy, especially in combinationwith actual satellite and vegetation images of the area of interest.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 900 for generatingboundary data from GPS way point data. In accordance with FIG. 9, a usermay record GPS way point data by actually visiting the property. Forexample, a user may be a landowner who is visiting the property and hasa portable handheld GPS device capable of recording way points. The usercan record the way point data in accordance with a physical tour of theproperty to insure that the boundary locations are properly located.Similarly, Forest Service personnel may use a handheld GPS device torecord way points for an area of interest for a particular study.Similarly, research personnel may wish to review a watershed area tomake studies. In each of these cases, the individuals can record waypoints according to the actual physical locations of the user on theproperty. At step 904, the user can then download the way point data toa GPS tool. For example, handheld GPS devices can be interconnected tocomputer systems to allow the GPS way point data to be downloaded intothe computer system. At step 906, the GPS tool then reads the way pointdata and generates map coordinate data. A translator program can be usedto translate the GPS coordinate data to the USGS global coordinatesystem to locate the GPS way points on the USGS maps, for example. Themap coordinate data can then be used by a drawing tool at step 908 togenerate the boundary data that is used in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 1000 for generatingboundary data from metes and bounds descriptions. At step 1002, astarting location point is determined for the metes and boundsdescriptions. This starting location point may be visually generated bya user on a USGS map or generated using a GPS way point, for example.Any desired method of generating a starting point can be used at step1002. At step 1004, a metes and bounds tool reads the first step ofmetes and bounds description. The metes and bounds descriptions aregenerally given as vectors such as “proceed North Northwest for 475feet.” Each of these metes and bounds descriptions can be entered intothe system as separate vectors. Alternatively, this information can beread by the metes and bounds tool using character recognition techniquesand separated using an indicator such as a semicolon for each vectordescription.

At step 1006, the metes and bounds tool generates a first set ofboundary location data from the metes and bounds description. This isdone by mathematically plotting each of the vectors onto the map datasuch as USGS maps to determine boundary location points. At step 1008,the next set of metes and bounds descriptions, i.e. the next metes andbounds vector, is read by the metes and bounds tool. At step 1010, acomparison is made to determine if the most recently read vectorcorresponds to the first vector. If it does, that indicates that all ofthe metes and bounds descriptions have been entered, and the process isended. If it does not, the next set of boundary location data isgenerated at step 1014. The process then proceeds back to step 1008until all of the metes and bounds descriptions have been read by themetes and bounds tool.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 1100 that may be usedin marketing personalized land websites. At step 1102, an affiliate isidentified that has a high traffic website related to land. An agreementis entered into with the affiliate to attach a link from the affiliate'swebsite offering a free map of land in accordance with step 1102. Atstep 1104, a link to an area of the central archive land website 102(FIG. 1) is made that hides the identity of the central archive website.Since the identity of the central archive website of the presentinvention is kept hidden, the affiliate land website appears to beoffering a free valuable service, i.e. a free map of land. In otherwords, the link button that appears on the affiliate's site that linksto an area in the central archive land website that does not identifythe central archive land website. In this fashion, it appears that theaffiliate is offering the free map of the land. At step 1106, the useris then offered the option of obtaining the free map of the land orpurchasing a land website including upgrades as disclosed elsewhereherein. If the user chooses a free map, the process proceeds to a step1108 where a print of the free map is provided. At step 1110, the useris then linked back to the affiliate's site so that the affiliate hasnot lost this traffic. If the affiliate chooses to purchase a landwebsite at step 1106, the process proceeds to a step 1112 where the userpurchases the land website. At step 1114, the system reads the link datato determine the address of the linking affiliate. In other words, thecentral archive land website server 102 (FIG. 1) determines the addressof the website from where the user has been linked. At step 1116, thecentral land website server automatically generates the land website forthe user which includes a number of menu items. One of the menu items isa link button that links back to the affiliate's site. For example, ifthe affiliate's site is a lender that specializes in lending money forpurchase of ranches, a link button will be provided directly back tothat lender. At step 1118, the link button is maintained on thepersonalized land website that links back to the affiliate for as longas the website remains active. After the land website is generated, theuser may be linked directly back to the affiliate's site as shown atstep 1110.

The process disclosed in FIG. 11, in this manner, allows the affiliateto offer a valuable free service to the users of the affiliate's site byoffering the free map while still having these users linked back to theaffiliate's site. In addition, if a user purchases a land website, theaffiliate obtains a portion of the revenue of the land website by anagreement between the affiliate and the central land website owner.Further, a link is maintained, that cannot be removed by the user, onthe personalized land website back to the affiliate for the entire timethat the website is active. By using such a marketing scheme, agreementswith affiliates can be easily established.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps 1200 in marketingoffers of land websites and land website services. FIG. 12 graphicallyillustrates the manner in which various upgraded services and productscan be provided to users at progressively higher prices. Each of theprices illustrated in FIG. 12 is for illustrative purposes only and areprovided to indicate the types and services of products that may beavailable at various illustrative prices. At step 1202, a user isinitially offered a free map of the land. If the user chooses the freemap, the map is printed for free at step 1204 and the process ends. Atstep 1206, the user is offered a print of the land together with anacreage calculation for an exemplary price of $11.95. If the userchooses this option, the acreage of the circumscribed property iscalculated at step 1208, and a map is printed with the acreagecalculation at step 1210. The process is then ended. At step 1212, theuser may be offered a land website with two USGS maps and an acreagecalculation for a period of 30 days, for example, for an exemplary priceof $24.95. If the user selects this option, a land website is generatedat step 1214. At step 1216, a password and security code are generatedfor the user which allows the user to access the land website. At step1218, maps and data are automatically generated and stored. The processis then ended. At step 1220, the user may be offered a land website witha customization package for a period of one year for a price of $49.95,for example. The system then generates a land website at step 1222, anda password and security code are generated at step 1224. At step 1226,maps and data are automatically generated and stored. At step 1228, acustomization package is automatically generated, and the process ends.The customization package can then be used by the user for generatingvarious features of the land website that are described herein. At step1230, the user may be offered an upgraded land website such as a bronze,silver, gold or platinum level website for exemplary prices of $150.00,$250.00, $650.00 or $1250.00, for example. At step 1232, the selectedtype of land website is generated. At step 1234, a password and securitycode are generated. At step 1236, maps and data are automaticallygenerated and stored. At step 1238, a customization package isautomatically generated, as described herein. At step 1240, customfeatures may be hand built into the system such as fly-around movies,3-D satellite imagery and other custom features.

Various embodiments therefore provide a unique system for providingindividualized land websites that allow data and images regarding aparticular piece of property to be collected in a single, easilyaccessible location. By gathering information in a single location, thetime required to purchase or sell property can be accelerated since theinformation is easily and readily available to everyone involved in theprocess of a sales transaction including brokers, lenders, appraisersand owners. The land website can also be used to store this importantinformation after the sale and provide an ongoing historical record ofthe property that includes actual images and condition of the property.The land website can be used for planning and development purposes, suchas deciding the best way to subdivide a property, meet environmentalregulations, provide crop and/or livestock management, plan developmentof the property such as introduction of canals or ponds, forestation andcutting of forests, as well as various other purposes. The land websitecan be accessed by anyone having the password and security code, such asgovernment officials making decisions relating to the property. Further,the land website allows users to e-mail images of the property if theuser does not wish a particular individual to have full access to thepersonalized land website. Further, since the map data and image data ispresented in an image format, standard graphics packages can be used tomodify the images and easily indicate any desired features for planningpurposes, or any other informational purposes.

Various embodiments utilize simple web browsers that are available onmost personal computers to access and view the images of the propertyand also uses standard graphics packages to make modifications. Hence,the land website is intuitive and easy to use. Easily accessible imageformat data can be provided in a secure manner to users. The landwebsite of the present invention provides a useful and unique tool forutilizing both satellite image data and map image data, as well as otherassociated data relating to a piece of property, in a simple and easyfashion. Further, boundary information can be easily generated by eitherselecting a global coordinate location such as a township and range, orby simply accessing a location on a map and enlarging the view to anappropriate size so that boundaries can be drawn using a simple andeasy-to-use boundary applet tool. Further, the present invention is alsocapable of providing unique 3-D images and 3-D fly-around movies of theproperty so that a virtual tour can be taken of the property. Thevirtual tour images can be created using composites of various satelliteimage data as well as map image data to provide a very complete andauthentic view of the property. For example, infrared vegetation imagingcan be combined with regular visual image data from satellites toprovide a very realistic view of the property. Further, USGS map data orBLM map data may be included in the image to show legal boundaries andvarious features of the property. In this way, individuals, such aslenders and appraisers, can view the property in a very realisticfashion without actually taking the time to visit the property. In thismanner, valuable time and effort can be saved by using the land websiteof the present invention.

Some advantages of various embodiments are that digital images includingmap data can be provided in a simple and easy fashion over the Internetthat allows users to circumscribe the boundaries of a piece of propertyof interest. A unique personalized, customizable website for theproperty of interest (land website) can then be established that allowsviewers having a password to view the property and related informationrelating to the property. Various image data can be viewed in variousdesired combinations that allows a viewer to take virtual tours ofproperty over the Internet by accessing land websites of ranches, farms,land areas of interest and other large properties in an affordablemanner. Updates can be easily made to the land website. Purchase of newinformation that has become available such as flood plain data, newmaps, etc. can be made by a user in response to e-mail notifications.

When using various embodiments for land marketing purposes, the timebetween listing and closing on the sale of the property can be reducedby having a land specific web site that allows users to take virtualtours. For example, research time is reduced because paper maps thatcover the appropriate area do not have to be located and purchased. Theland website and virtual tours that are established in accordance withthe present invention do not require technical skills of the user toestablish a land website. For example, a landowner who wishes to usethis service can easily do so by circumscribing that property using asimple boundary generation software drawing tool that may be providedover the Internet with the map image data. The system disclosed invarious embodiments is intuitive and easy to use. One of the features ofthe present invention that aids the user in establishing a boundary isthe establishment of georeferenced points on a plurality of differenttypes of maps that cross-link information from one map to another to aidthe user in identifying boundary points. The land website can be madepublicly available for marketing purposes.

Further, various embodiments do not require the user to obtain specialsoftware. Commonly available web browser software such as InternetExplorer, Netscape, etc. can be used to access the land specificwebsites. Graphics packages such as Microsoft Paint, Adobe Photoshop andother commonly used image modifying software are also readily availablewhich allow a user to generate modified image data. The disclosedembodiments have the convenience of being available to any computerhaving Internet access, at any time, from any location.

A further advantage of various disclosed embodiments is that informationrelating to the property can be located in one convenient place, i.e.the land website. Customization modules allow users to add scanned andtext documents, appraisals, reports, loan documents, photographs, thirdparty maps and other information relating to the property. For example,using a customization module, which may part of an upgrade package, auser can change the web page style. If the user is attempting to sell acattle ranch, the web page may display cattle and cowboys. If theproperty is somewhat mountainous with streams, the user may wish to havea web page that shows fly fishing. Further, a customization module mayallow the user to upload photos to a photo gallery that is part of theweb page. Also, the customization module may have a location for storinge-documents. For example, PDF documents relating to legal descriptions,easements, watershed studies, forestation, etc. may be scanned andstored in the e-document section. The e-document section may havemultiple passwords for limited access. The documents can be stored inany desired format such as PDF format, Word, WordPerfect, jpeg images,etc. The customization module may also allow the user to add links toother locations. For example, if a question arises regarding aparticular easement or right of way, a link to a particular treatise oneasements and rights of way may be established by the user through theland library. Further, the customization module may allow the user tomodify standard images such as jpeg images using available graphicssoftware packages such as Microsoft Paint, and reload those modifiedimages onto the website. Further, the customization model may allow theuser to load third party maps onto the land website. Other informationsuch as ideas, directions to the property, etc. can also be stored onthe land website.

A further advantage of at least one embodiment is the ability to providea comprehensive system of storing map data and other data in a simpleand easy fashion. For example, a specific implementation of the presentinvention will allow up to 35 different maps of the property to bestored in a single accessible location including 3-D satellitephotography, general vicinity maps, regional and statewide maps andphotography, 1:24 K USGS maps, quad maps, 1:100 K quad maps, 1:250 KUSGS maps, BLM maps, 2.50 D maps (e.g. color variations to showelevation differences), 3D maps, and/or any other types of maps, in asingle accessible location. The user can easily customize any of thesemaps that are presented as image data using standard graphic software.In addition, modified satellite imagery provided in accordance with thedisclosed embodiments allows an elevated 360 degree fly-around view ofthe subject property showing topological features and boundaries of theproperty.

Another advantage of the various disclosed embodiments is that theboundary information can be cross-linked to satellite imagery in thesame manner that various types of maps such as USGS, BLM and other typesof maps are crossed linked. In this fashion, a particular location orland mass can be positively identified on any desired type of map suchas a BLM map, USGS map or other type of map and the correspondingsatellite imagery can be displayed with the boundary information bygeoreferencing the boundary information to global coordinates on thesatellite image data. Typically, it is difficult to identify particularlocations on satellite imagery because of the lack of politicalboundaries, legends and other features that are normally shown ontypical maps. The georeferencing of global coordinates allows the userto clearly identify specific locations on satellite imagery with anassurance of correctness that has not previously been available,especially for neophyte viewers of satellite data. In this fashion,satellite imagery can now be easily provided through Internetconnections that allow the user to view specific areas of interest.

The disclosed embodiments may also assist brokers in marketing theirservices. For example, brokers that can offer property for sale usingthe land websites of the present invention are more likely to obtainsales. Brokers can purchase lower cost implementations to demonstratethe properties and features of the land website to a potential seller toobtain a listing. For example, at least one embodiment may beimplemented in a fashion that allows a broker to establish a landwebsite for a particular piece of property that includes only severalinexpensive maps. The land website can then be upgraded to provide landvirtual tour components such as 3-D maps, fly-around views and othermore expensive features after the listing has been obtained. Inaddition, any particular virtual tour or other image data can bedirectly e-mailed to potential buyers, brokers, lenders, appraisersand/or engineers and others utilizing the system of the presentinvention. Also, since the map information is generated as image data,the image data can be used to generate hard copy images such as salesbrochures, wall maps and other materials.

Various embodiments also have the advantage of saving time andminimizing effort in sales activities. For example, buyers can take avirtual tour of the property which may speed the buyer's interest orquickly eliminate uninterested buyers. This may save a considerableamount of time by eliminating physical tours by the broker withuninterested buyers. Instantaneous access and the ability to e-mailimage data and virtual tours also saves broker time. Brokers who haveindividual websites can provide links to the land websites for each ofthe properties listed by that broker which provides a simple way toconcentrate sales of property listed by that broker.

Various embodiments may also speed the due diligence process of a landbuyer. For example, appraisals and loan commitments can be obtained in amuch quicker fashion utilizing the present invention. E-mail links canbe provided to various information located within the land website whichprovides all of the base information needed for appraisers and lendersincluding legal documentation, legal descriptions, printable maps andimages, land boundaries, improvements and other information.

Various embodiments may also be used for purposes other than the sale ofreal estate, such as management, research, conservation easementcreation and maintenance of real estate. Further, the land websites ofvarious embodiments can be used for studying property and as a decisionmaking tool. For example, a landowner, manager and consultant of theproperty can all log onto the land website and make decisions regardingitems such as grazing management, fencing and other improvements such asroad construction, placement of ponds and lakes, etc. Further,subdivision decisions and other planning decisions can be made using theeasily accessible land websites of the present invention. Morespecifically, map and satellite information is provided as image data,such as jpeg image data, that can be modified by a user and restored onthe land website for discussion purposes with land managers, county andstate officials, etc. Watershed management, forestation, selectivecutting, crop maintenance and other similar uses can be made of the landwebsite of the present invention. Various embodiments utilize simple webbrowser technology and graphic image display software that is commonlyavailable and allows users to modify and enhance images and upload themfor functionality and convenient access and retrieval of the landwebsite.

Various embodiments may also employ a unique marketing approach. Inaccordance with the marketing approach of the present invention, thirdparty websites relating to land that may have a large amount of trafficare provided with a link button that offers a free map that linksdirectly to the land website of various embodiments. The point at whichthe user is linked to the land website may be an internal point withinthe land website of various embodiments that does not provide overtidentification of the land website. The viewer of the third partywebsite can then print a free detailed map of the land or land area ofinterest that displays the boundaries drawn by the user. As the userproceeds to print a free map, a purchase option is presented to the userto purchase a land website. If a land website is actually purchased bythe user, a referral fee can then be paid to the referring website.Traffic can then be driven back to the referring website for otherpurposes. In this fashion, the link to the land website does not causetraffic to be permanently diverted or lost by the referring website. Forexample, if a land website is purchased, the traffic may be redirectedto the referring website to obtain a loan for the property or place anorder to buy future products and services from the referring website.The land website portal may also be accessed by a large tree of domainnames that have geographically descriptive terms in combination withgeneric terms relating to land such as disclosed in U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 60/288,815 filed May 4, 2001 entitled “ASystem for Selling Real Estate Products and Services Through theInternet” by Craig Harrison, which is specifically incorporated hereinby reference for all that it discloses and teaches.

Various embodiments also provide various ways of locating a desiredpiece of property. In one embodiment, geographic names can be used fromthe USGS quad maps to narrow in on a desired piece of property. Inanother embodiment, a search can be performed using township and rangeidentifiers to locate a piece of property within a 6 mile by 6 mileboundary. In a further embodiment, the property can actually be visuallylocated on maps using various maps having different scales to zoom in onthe property location.

Further, various techniques can be used for plotting boundaries. Forexample, points can be visually located on maps and image data to locateboundary points. Further, metes and bounds descriptions can be enteredinto the system which automatically plot the boundaries usingmathematical calculators. As long as the initial point can be locatedproperly, such as through a visual location or other global coordinatesystem, the metes and bounds description can be plotted using a metesand bounds drawing tool. A third way of plotting boundaries is to useGPS way points that have physically been recorded during a visit to theproperty. These GPS way points are then loaded into a GPS boundarymapping tool that plots the boundaries on a map that aligns the GPSlocations with the proper locations on the map. Boundaries are thenformed according to those locations. Alternatively, if the drawing toolis used to generate the boundary data, latitude and longitudecoordinates can be recorded as the cursor is moved along the boundary.In this manner, the boundary that is drawn by the user can be recordedusing latitudinal and longitudinal data points (boundary data) forcomparison with actual property descriptions. In addition, the drawingtool can also provide bearing, distance and direction information as thecursor is moved along the boundary line. In this fashion, the user canplot boundaries by hand using the drawing tool and provide accurateboundaries using metes and bounds descriptions. If a particular metesand bounds description includes a latitude and longitudinal location forany of the corner points, that point can be used as a starting point andlocated exactly on the map since the map includes the global positioningdata. Further, if GPS way points are used, the GPS boundary mapping toolmay automatically select the correct size map and satellite resolutionto display the property.

The foregoing description of the invention has been presented forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, andother modifications and variations may be possible in light of the aboveteachings. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to bestexplain the principles of the invention and its practical application tothereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the inventionin various embodiments and various modifications as are suited to theparticular use contemplated. It is intended that the appended claims beconstrued to include other alternative embodiments of the inventionexcept insofar as limited by the prior art.

1. A method of generating a personalized land website at a dedicatedInternet accessible location having a dedicated uniform resource locator(URL) address on the Internet, said personalized land website providingan archive of a variety of information relating to a selected area ofland comprising: creating said dedicated Internet accessible location atsaid dedicated URL address for storage of said archive of said varietyof information; providing map data over the Internet that relates tosaid selected area of land; providing boundary drawing tools to allow aboundary to be circumscribed at least partially around said selectedarea of land on said map data; drawing a boundary at least partiallyaround said selected area of land using said boundary drawing tools;storing said map data at said dedicated Internet accessible location onsaid land website at said URL address; and providing additional storagelocations on said personalized land website for storage of textinformation relating to said area of land at said dedicated Internetaccessible location.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising:providing further storage locations on said personalized land websitefor storage of photographic data relating to said area of land.
 3. Themethod of claim 1 further comprising: providing toggling tools thatallow said users to rapidly access additional map data and other datalocated within and around said boundary.
 4. The method of claim 1further comprising: automatically generating said boundary on said mapdata.
 5. The method of claim 3 further comprising: providing imagingtools to allow said map data, additional map data and other data to bemodified.
 6. The method of claim 5 wherein said process of providingimaging tools further comprises: providing imaging tools that allowfeatures to be added or removed from said map data, additional map dataand said other data; providing imaging tools that allow said additionalmap data and said other data to be combined with said map data.
 7. Themethod of claim 1 wherein said process of storing text informationcomprises storing legal documents relating to said area of land.
 8. Themethod of claim 2 wherein said process of generating photographic datacomprises generating satellite image data.
 9. The method of claim 2wherein said process of generating photographic data comprisesgenerating aerial image data.
 10. A method of generating a personalizedland website at a dedicated Internet accessible location having adedicated uniform resource locator address (URL) address on theInternet, said personalized land website dedicated to providing avariety of different types of information relating to a selected area ofland at said dedicated URL address that is accessible to users of theInternet comprising: creating said dedicated Internet accessiblelocation for said land website that is accessible by users of theInternet at said dedicated URL address for storage of said variety ofinformation relating to said selected area of land; providing map dataover the Internet that is stored at said dedicated Internet accessiblelocation; drawing a boundary at least partially around said selectedarea of land using a boundary drawing tool; providing photographic datarelating to said selected area of land; and storing said map data andsaid photographic data on said personalized land website at saiddedicated Internet accessible location which is located at saiddedicated URL address.
 11. The method of claim 10 further comprising:protecting said storage areas by providing separate security codes forsaid storage area, and limiting access to said storage areas bycontrolling distribution of said security codes.
 12. The method of claim11 further comprising: providing additional storage areas for storingtextual information relating to said selected area of land.
 13. Themethod of claim 10 wherein said photographic data includes satelliteimage data relating to said selected area of land.
 14. The method ofclaim 12 further comprising: providing image modification tools to allowmodification of said map data and said photographic data.
 15. A landwebsite that provides a dedicated Internet URL address for archivinginformation relating to an area of land comprising: a storage devicethat stores map data; boundary drawing tools that circumscribe aboundary around said area of land to create global coordinates for saidarea of land; an Internet accessible storage area located at saiddedicated Internet address that stores said map data associated withsaid global coordinates and other data as a personalized land website;browser compatible imaging tools that interface with browsers that allowviewing of said map data and other data on said personalized landwebsite.
 16. A method of generating individual and personalized landwebsites located at a dedicated uniform resource locator address on theInternet that provides information relating to a selected area of land,said personalized land website providing an archive of said informationcomprising: creating said dedicated uniform resource locator address onthe Internet; providing map data over the Internet; providing boundarydrawing tools that circumscribe a boundary around said selected area ofland on said map data to create personalized land map data; storing saidpersonalized and map data at said dedicated uniform resource locatoraddress; and providing additional storage locations at additionaldedicated uniform resource locator addresses for storage of additionalinformation relating to said selected area of land.
 17. The method ofclaim 16 wherein said additional information comprises at least one ofthe group consisting of: title abstracts, deed information, legaldescriptions, leases, rights-of-way, surveys, watershed studies,easements, loan information, appraisal reports, grazing leases,insurance, conservation easements, ownership rights, public land leases,mineral rights of land, water rights of land, land titles, environmentalaudit, third party maps, insurance documents, improvements, leases,flood plain data, scanned documents, loan documents, right of wayinformation, or e-appraisal reports.
 18. A method of generating apersonalized land website on the Internet that contains informationrelating to a selected area of land comprising: providing map data overthe Internet; drawing a boundary around said selected area of land usingboundary drawing tools to create a personalized land map; storing saidpersonalized land map at said dedicated uniform resource locatoraddress; storing additional data relating to said selected area of landat an additional dedicated uniform resource locator address; andproviding said uniform resource locator address and said additionaldedicated uniform resource locator address as said personalized landwebsite.
 19. The method of generating a personalized land website ofclaim 18 further comprising: protecting said personalized land websitewith at least one security code that limits access to said dedicateduniform resource locator address.
 20. The method of claim 19 whereinsaid process of storing said additional data comprises storing textinformation selected from the group consisting of: title abstracts, deedinformation, legal descriptions, leases, rights-of-way, surveys,watershed studies, easements, loan information, appraisal reports,grazing leases, insurance, conservation easements, ownership rights,public land leases, mineral rights of land, water rights of land, landtitles, environmental audit, third party maps, insurance documents,improvements, leases, flood plain data, scanned documents, loandocuments, right of way information, or e-appraisal reports.